From Medicine Rejection to Academic History: Ayomide Alimi Breaks Records at OAU Chemistry Department

In a remarkable display of academic resilience, Ayomide Alimi has set a new benchmark at Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), graduating with an exceptional Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of 4.87/5.00 in the Department of Chemistry.

His achievement stands as one of the highest scores ever recorded in the history of the department, marking a triumphant end to a journey that began with initial disappointment.

Like many high-achieving Nigerian students, Alimi’s original aspiration was to study Medicine. However, after being offered admission into the Chemistry program instead, he chose to embrace his new path with unwavering focus rather than regret.

Reflecting on his journey, Alimi noted that his penultimate year presented the most intense academic pressure, but he remained steadfast through the support of family, mentors, and peers. This dedication eventually birthed a new passion for Organic Chemistry, specifically its critical role in drug development—a field that bridges his interest in science and healthcare.

His record-breaking performance earned him five major academic accolades at the university’s recent convocation, most notably:

Best Graduating Student, Department of Chemistry

Overall Best Graduating Student, Faculty of Science

"To God be the glory. Great is Your faithfulness," Alimi stated following the ceremony. "Here’s to new beginnings and greater heights ahead."

Ayomide’s story has become a source of inspiration across social media and the OAU community, serving as a powerful testament to the idea that redirection can lead to extraordinary success when met with resilience and purpose.